Affordable 7-Day Relaxed Scotland Road Trip Vacation from Edinburgh to Glasgow

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Scotland begins when you reach Edinburgh, where you’ll stay for a total of 3 nights.

Edinburgh is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Dean Village. Around 13,727 visitors have rated this fascinating village and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is The Edinburgh Larder. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,804 customers.

The Kitchin serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Edinburgh has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,577 reviews.

Bramble Bar & Lounge is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 743 customers, Bramble Bar & Lounge is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Edinburgh looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh), our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,814 reviews.

Panda & Sons offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Edinburgh. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,617 customers.

Locals like unwinding at The Dome. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,433 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Scotland! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you'll explore the best attractions in Edinburgh at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Edinburgh, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous HMY Britannia. This incredible royal yacht has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Scotland by seeing another popular site in Edinburgh, the wonderful Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Scottish National Gallery. This art museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors. Up to 660,741 people visit this popular attraction each year.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Camera Obscura. This visitor centre is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Edinburgh Castle. This amazing site is a wonderful castle with more than 90,949 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Edinburgh itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Scotland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Edinburgh. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Dishoom Edinburgh. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,852 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre is rated 4.6 stars out of 5 by 2,950 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Cafe Andaluz. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,019 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Whiski Bar & Restaurant. This vibrant bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,669 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Chaophraya Thai Restaurant. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,238 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,314 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Edinburgh. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Glasgow, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Royal Mile is waiting for you. This best-rated sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is The Real Mary King's Close. This unique top-tier point of interest is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible National Museum of Scotland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 visitors, this national museum is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Holyrood Palace. This popular official residence and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to Holyrood Park. This attraction is a valued archaeological site in the area that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Edinburgh has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Scotland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Glasgow. In Glasgow, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,948 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Paesano Pizza.

Locals also recommend The Willow Tea Rooms as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at The Willow Tea Rooms as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,255 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Mono. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,446 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Òran Mór. Òran Mór is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,385 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Stereo. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,954 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to The Anchor Line. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. The Anchor Line is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,659 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Scotland!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Stirling, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Stirling will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Scotland.

One of the city’s best travel destinations is a fascinating castle, the stunning Stirling Castle. Around 26,632 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Travelers also come to the city to visit the spectacular Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, a popular zoo and another top-rated attraction in Stirling.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Stirling. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Stirling and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Stirling that will make your self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Stirling to find the best options for you!

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Glasgow for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Scotland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Glasgow.

With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,187 customers, the dining experience Elia Greek Restaurant offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Scotland.

The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow is another pleasant place to eat in Glasgow. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,179 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out La Lanterna and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,068 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Mono, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Glasgow is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,446 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at The Citizen Glasgow, another well-known bar in Glasgow. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,260 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is The Piper Whisky Bar. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,323 customers, The Piper Whisky Bar is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Glasgow.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Scotland is all about!

Day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Scotland serves as your introduction to Glasgow. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Scotland and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Glasgow, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 15,249 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 5-star Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,407 guests, Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Glasgow - City Center Theatreland offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. Holiday Inn Express Glasgow - City Center Theatreland is a top-rated budget hotel in Glasgow with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 7,196 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Glasgow. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Glasgow, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Glasgow. The fascinating Glasgow Botanic Gardens has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,594 travelers.

Glasgow is also home to the captivating Kelvingrove Park, a local park and another popular attraction in the city. About 13,336 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The extraordinary Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Scotland. This extraordinary art museum and travel destination hosts more than 1,037,594 visitors annually. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 travelers, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll enjoy the time you’ll spend at the incredible Riverside Museum. A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing museum and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,799 reviews.

When you’re in the mood to experience something amazing, we recommend you visit the fantastic Pollok Country Park. Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating park and sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features. Around 7,112 visitors have rated the famous Pollok Country Park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Glasgow, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Scotland.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Glasgow, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Glasgow is Chaophraya. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,386 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love Bothy Glasgow for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Glasgow. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 969 customers.

Another alternative is Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar. This restaurant serves a variety of comforting food and drinks and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 868 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Glasgow. At The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,179 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,038 reviews.

Alston Bar & Beef is also one of the best places in Glasgow where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 785 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Scotland!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Scotland will take you on a self-paced journey to two incredible places in one day. See some of the best attractions in Scotland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

You’ll begin your day and sightseeing in Glasgow, and continue your explorations in the city of Skinflats. The charming Edinburgh is where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Your first stop is the great city of Glasgow, where you will see the amazing George Square. This famous square has an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 20,066 people.

While leisurely driving around the city, you can also spend some of your precious time at the incredible Glasgow Cathedral. The amazing Glasgow Cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,737 travelers.

You can also go sightseeing at the popular Glasgow Green. This stadium that receives 4.6 visitors every year is a spectacular travel destination rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,762 travelers.

Give yourself the opportunity to see more of Glasgow than meets the eye by joining a top-rated tour. Put your relaxed road trip to a halt in favor of an in-depth exploration of the city’s best sights and hidden gems while connecting with locals and fellow travelers.

After exploring the city of Glasgow, it’s time to hit the road again and continue your relaxed road trip to another city in Scotland, the lovely Skinflats!

In Skinflats, you’ll find the magnificent The Kelpies. This popular sculpture has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,904 visitors.

After exploring all these beautiful places, drive leisurely to the beautiful city of Edinburgh for some much-needed rest and relaxation. Here you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a long day of driving and exploring some of the best places to visit in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

We highly recommend going to The Witchery by the Castle. This place is a popular restaurant with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,766 customers.

Another great restaurant option is Howies Restaurant. This food place is often recommended by travelers and has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,817 customers.

You can also eat at the top-rated Howies Restaurant. Offering great food and amazing service, this restaurant has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,828 customers.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Check out Cafe Royal for a great selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. This incredible bar is highly recommended and has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,216 customers.

Another amazing bar that serves many kinds of beverages and cocktails is The Bow Bar. This bar has a wonderful rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,813 customers.

You may also try Tigerlily, another top-rated bar in the city. About 2,369 bargoers have given this place a thumb up, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Let’s toast to day 6 of your laid-back self-drive in Skinflats! Celebrate this unique opportunity to enjoy a memorable road trip adventure across Scotland!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Edinburgh.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Edinburgh once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Scotland on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Calton Hill is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Edinburgh. This top sight is a popular mountain, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,517 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Edinburgh or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Edinburgh and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.